A significant milestone for Vanuatu’s medical tourism took place recently when tourism executive Gary Morrison became the first international patient to undergo open-heart surgery at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital (PSH) in Nadi, Fiji. The 57-year-old resort casino manager traveled to Fiji after struggling with heart issues for five years, leveraging recommendations from family and healthcare professionals in Vanuatu.
Morrison underwent a triple graft heart bypass surgery, which was performed by an experienced team led by cardiothoracic surgeon Dr. Sanjeev Khulbey. The surgery was conducted between February 23 and February 28 and was noted for its success, leading to Morrison’s discharge after receiving clearance from the hospital specialists. He praised the level of care, stating, “The services I received at PSH are brilliant, fantastic, and among the best I could expect.”
Prior to his surgery, Morrison was aware that open-heart surgical options were unavailable in Vanuatu. He expressed hope that his experience would encourage more patients from Vanuatu and neighboring regions to consider seeking medical treatment in Fiji, citing the convenience provided by direct flights between Port Vila and Nadi, operated by Fiji Airways.
Dr. Parvish Kumar, the founder and CEO of PSH, highlighted the surgery as part of Fiji’s ambition to establish itself as a leading destination for medical tourism in the Pacific. Since the launch of their multimillion-dollar cardiology department and catheterization laboratory late last year, PSH has successfully completed multiple heart surgeries, marking an exciting development in local healthcare capabilities.
This achievement not only improves healthcare access for patients in Fiji and neighboring countries but also signals a broader opportunity for growth within the medical tourism sector. With ongoing efforts to market these affordable, high-quality medical services, PSH could become a key player in attracting international patients seeking affordable, high-quality healthcare options.
The successful surgery underscores a shift in the healthcare landscape, assuring patients that advanced medical treatments are becoming increasingly accessible within the Pacific region. This trend fosters hope for better health outcomes while contributing positively to local economies through potential developments in health tourism.
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